With fists swinging, Spillane’s iconic private eye is back in two exciting original dramatizations. In the first, a lost love of Hammer’s is gruesomely murdered, embroiling him in a dangerous case involving a corporate conspiracy and a missing oil tanker. The second case finds Hammer dealing with a terrorist threat that rivals September 11. Throughout both of these well-produced adventures, guns boom, windows crash and cars roar, while colorful characters—including Hammer’s always loyal secretary, Velda—are portrayed by talented actors. But it’s Keach’s calm, stalwart and true performance of Mike Hammer that holds these stories together. Keach’s deep resonant voice and his perfect timing with a quip or a threat combine to keep the listener enthralled, even when the writing sags a bit. Keach also provides the atmospheric music played during the recording. (Nov.)